Asiata's agent, Ken Vierra, said he received word from Vikings on Wednesday afternoon that his client has been tendered a contract. Asiata, an exclusive-rights free agent, will get a one-year deal worth $570,000.

"It's what I had expected," said Vierra, who told the Pioneer Press Wednesday morning he had little doubt about Asiata returning to the team. "Now, it's going to be interesting after next season, when he will become a restricted free agent."

Vierra spoke to Vikings officials Rob Brzezinski, George Paton and Ryan Monnens at last month's combine in Indianapolis and learned Asiata was expected to return.

Asiata, who has played two seasons for Minnesota, rushed for 166 yards on 44 carries for a 3.8-yard average and three touchdowns last season. He started two games when both Adrian Peterson and Toby Gerhart were injured, rushing for 51 yards and three TDs on Dec. 15 against Philadelphia and for 115 yards in the Dec. 29 season finale against Detroit.